Green Gown Awards 2018 - STAFF - Matthew Bennett - University of East Anglia - Finalist

I have raised the profile of sustainable laboratories at the University of East Anglia (UEA), receiving attention from senior leadership, prompting a sustainable labs programme, and reporting to the high-level ‘Sustainability Board’ committee. I have led a number of projects including the ‘SmartCondensing’ initiative, delivering water savings of over 530,000 litres. My partnerships with manufacturers have resulted in new product innovations extending potential water savings worldwide.

I have worked closely with the Sustainability, Utilities and Engineering Department at UEA, championing resource saving, efficiency and innovation for sustainability from my role as a technician in the teaching laboratories, where I have been pivotal in embedding sustainability in student practical courses.

The TrySustainable scheme launched as part of a Green Impact Excellence project is my latest focus, communicating best practice and advances to academic staff, students, technicians and researchers. My efforts have promoted and supported activities far beyond my work area, leading to improved sustainability performance in the University’s resource-intensive laboratory environments.

Top 3 learnings:

1. Collaborations are key to success. Internal and external partnerships have been instrumental to my achievements.

2. Creativity and vision are powerful tools. I enhance project plans through innovative approaches.        

3. I gain motivation and maintain momentum by keeping positive actions and outcomes in sight.